James "Bob" Barkley

Bob was born on February 29, 1948 (a leap year baby) in Richmond, CA and left us on September 18, 2024, peacefully at home with his family by his side. Bob was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, veteran, and friend. Although he is no longer with us in body, his spirit remains alive in each of our hearts.
Bob is survived by his wife Phoebe Barkley, his daughter Patience "Raven" Barkley, and his grandson Robert Anthony McCarl, all of Stockton, CA, his sister Bonnie (Joe) Alvarez of Happy Camp, CA, and a sister Janet "Dolly" Olson. Bob is preceded in death by his parents Robert Darrell Barkley and June Hilda Bradford, his grandparents James Robert Barkley and Barbara Britton, his brother Larry Olson and his in-laws John and Valera Dornan.
Bob was a man defined by strength and commitment – characteristics that were exemplified in everything he did, including his brave service as a Vietnam Veteran. He graduated from Franklin High School in 1966 before he answered the call of duty when his country needed him, Bob was drafted into the army in 1968. Serving two tours with honor and courage his experiences shaped him, instilling in him a profound sense of responsibility and resilience before he was released in 1970 with honors.
As the pillar of his family, Bob's greatest joy was his loved ones. He shared a strong and enduring marriage with his beloved wife Phoebe Barkley for 48 years. Their partnership was filled with love, laughter, and a mutual respect – a testament to the beauty of enduring love. Together they nurtured a loving home and raised their daughter Raven, whom he cherished deeply. Bob was immensely proud of Raven and remained a source of unwavering support and guidance throughout her life.
As a grandfather to Bobby McCarl, Bob found a new role to relish. He embraced the joy of watching Bobby grow, imparting wisdom and sharing in moments filled with pride and laughter. To Bobby, he was not just a grandfather but a mentor and a cherished figure in his life.
Bob channeled his strong work ethic into building a life of stability and comfort for his family. He was a hard worker dedicating himself tirelessly to his career and ensuring that those he loved had what they needed to thrive. He worked for Moore Equipment, California Youth Authority (CYA), and Safeway Meat Processing Plant for 22 years until the plant closed. He worked for the City of Stockon for almost 15 years until his retirement. Bob volunteered at SUSD schools, he was on the PTA on-site councils, wrote two grants for Sutter Fort and Valley Days, he was a chaperon for field trips, drove the band trucks for competitions, and was on the Band Boosters for both his daughter and grandson. He was awarded for his involvement by a dinner and plaque. Bob's hobbies were cars, fishing, gardening, and antiques.
Let us remember him as the loving and dedicated man he was. Let us celebrate the life he led and carry forward the lessons he taught us about love, perseverance, and honor. In doing so, we keep his spirit alive within us, guiding us in our own lives.
James Robert "Bob" Barkley will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever be cherished by those he loved and by those who loved him.
A service will be held at 10:00am on Friday, October 4th, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Barkley family.